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Samba could spell Strictly exit for Scanlon
Research from William Hill Vegas has identified Angela Scanlon as the possible next casualty from this year’s edition of Strictly Come Dancing, with the presenter’s odds to be eliminated on Sunday shortening following news of her decision to take on the Samba this weekend.
The Samba, notorious for its complexity, has contributed to a whopping 21.6% of eliminations over the past six series inclusive – including Les Dennis and Eddie Kadi in this year’s edition – making it the most dangerous routine out of the available dances ahead of the Jive (15%) and the Cha-Cha-Cha (11.6%):
Whilst Scanlon is not the outright favourite to be the sixth contestant to depart the show this year, her odds of 6/1 for elimination have shortened to 5/1 following Tuesday’s news that she will brave the Brazilian routine alongside partner Carlos Gu, seeing her overtake Krishnan Guru-Murthy (11/2) into third place in the betting.
Adam Thomas (4/6) and Annabel Croft (9/2) are considered the likelier candidates to leave the series this Sunday, but with Les Dennis departing the show as the 3/1 third favourite at in the second week, the Samba has proven to take no prisoners if performed inadequately.
We explore the three trickiest routines below:
The Samba: A Carnival of Complexity
Eliminations in the past five series: 13 (21.6%)
The Samba is often described as a carnival on the dancefloor, with its vibrant and energetic movements. However, this dance is also notorious for its complexity. It requires precise hip action, intricate footwork, and a strong connection between the partners. The fast-paced rhythm, coupled with quick changes in direction, leaves little room for error, and has already contributed to the downfall of Les Dennis and Eddie Kadi in the 2023 series.
Angela Scanlon might find it challenging to master the unique bounce action and maintain the party-like atmosphere while executing technically demanding moves, and is 3/1 to be eliminated this weekend.
The Jive: A Test of Speed and Stamina
Eliminations in the past five series: 9 (15%)
The Jive is a dance that demands both speed and stamina. It’s characterised by its upbeat tempo, sharp kicks, and flicks, making it one of the riskiest routines on the Strictly dancefloor. Contestants often struggle to maintain the required energy levels throughout the performance, with Nikita Kanda a notable casualty from the current series in Week Three.
The Cha-Cha-Cha: Precision and Timing are Key
Eliminations in the last five series: 7 (11.6%)
The Cha-Cha-Cha is all about precision and timing. The quick syncopated steps and hip action require contestants to be in sync with their partners and the music. Any misstep or hesitation can be glaringly obvious and lead to elimination – as Lee Ryan (S16), Catherine Tyldesley (S17) and Kym Marsh (S20) all found out.
Whichever way this weekend’s elimination pans out, we should be in for a treat…
